Gemstone profile and identification guide
Sphalerite
Sphalerite is a Green, Brown silicate prized for its distinctive beauty, historic appeal, and use in fine jewellery and collector pieces.
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Overview
Sphalerite is a Green, Brown silicate prized for its distinctive beauty, historic appeal, and use in fine jewellery and collector pieces.
Use this profile as a collector reference and educational guide for quick on-page comparison, then validate with the interactive identification system.
Identification
Name: Sphalerite
Scientific classification: Silicate
Hardness: 6.5 Mohs
Transparency: transparent
Lustre: vitreous
Crystal system: Hexagonal
Primary colour: Green
Secondary colour: Brown
Colour family: Greens
Physical Properties
Hardness category: medium
Hardness value: 6.5 Mohs
Chemical composition: Silicon dioxide (SiO2)
Crystal system: Hexagonal
Common locations: Worldwide deposits
Learn more: Gem-A gemstone education resources.
Colour Variations
Sphalerite is classified within the greens palette. Primary colour: green. Secondary colour: brown.
Optical effects: None specified in the current dataset.
Formation
Formed from mineral-rich fluids and heat during metamorphism or igneous activity.
Origin
Worldwide deposits
Uses
Best for: Jewellery, displays, and design accents.
Ideal uses: Versatile collections and polished showcases.
Care
Clean with warm water and mild soap. Store separately from harder stones.
Need another candidate? Use advanced gemstone search or return to the identification guide.
Related gemstones by colour
Related gemstones by hardness
Gemstones from the same mineral family
Commonly confused gemstones
Sphalerite FAQ
How can I identify Sphalerite?
Compare hardness (6.5 Mohs), crystal system (Hexagonal), colour profile, and lustre (vitreous) with your sample. Then cross-check related gemstones listed above.
What colour range does Sphalerite appear in?
Sphalerite is classified within the greens palette. Primary colour: green. Secondary colour: brown.
Where is Sphalerite commonly used?
Versatile collections and polished showcases.. For maintenance, follow the care guidance in this profile.
Scientific References
Reference data from GIA and Mindat mineral records.